Recognizing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Recognizing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Whether your loved one is in a nursing home for short-term recovery or long-term care, you trust the caregivers to provide the utmost respect and care. Unfortunately, far too many elders are abused or neglected within nursing homes and assisted living facilities. According to the National Council on Aging, as many as 5 million elders are victims each year.

Nursing home abuse is a difficult issue to face. It can exist in many forms which may or may not be recognized by clear, physical signs. Types of abuse can include physical, emotional, sexual, exploitation, neglect and abandonment.

It is important you pay attention to all forms of abuse or neglect, especially the three most common:

Signs of Physical Abuse:

Common signs of physical abuse against an elderly person include unexplained signs of injury.

Bruises

Burns

Broken Bones

Abrasions

Pressure marks or skin indentions

Dislocations

Signs of Neglect:

Often times, neglect can occur as passive neglect, or when it is unintentional as a result of an overburdened or untrained caregiver.

Dirty clothes

Bad hygiene

Bedsores

Unusual weight loss

Soiled diapers

Unkempt home

Lack of medical aids

Signs of Verbal of Emotional Abuse:

This is one of the most difficult problems to spot, especially if the victim in unable to convey what’s happening.

Withdrawal or apathy

Nervous or fearful behavior

Strained or tense relationship between caregiver and elder

Caregiver who is snapping or yelling at the elder

Forced isolation

If you believe your loved one has been the victim or nursing home abuse or neglect, contact Joe and Martin today at 843-357-8888!